Saint Augustine, as one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in the United States, is home to a rich history, diverse culture and cosmopolitan values. It is a befitting place for the Festival of Chariots to be held, as one of the oldest continuously held multicultural festivals in the world. The founding fathers of the United States wrote in the declaration of independence that "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness." Over the course of the past 241 years there have been many challenges to these ideals. In these times of uncertainty between nations, races, classes and cultures, a common platform for equality is needed, to inspire humanity towards peace, freedom and friendship.

The Festival of Chariots (Rathayatra) is the celebration of inviting into our hearts the Lord of the Universe (Sri Krishna - the All-Attractive One / Sri Jagannatha - the Master of the Universe) of Whom we are all a part. By offering a little service to the Lord, we can awaken our dormant love for Him within us. By watering the root of the tree all the branches are nourished. Similarly when service is given to the Lord of the Universe, all living beings become satisfied. This is known as Bhakti-Yoga, connection to the Lord through devotional service. By singing, dancing, cooking, feasting, decorating and having meaningful discussions about the glories and beauty of the Lord and His presence in our lives, we find a common platform for achieving peace, friendship and lasting happiness.

Please come and experience for yourself this great festival of loving service, by pulling the ropes of the chariot of Lord Jagannatha, chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, honoring the delicious, free, transcendentally sanctified feast, and dancing together in spiritual bliss.

For more information on the St. Augustine Festival of Chariots and other festivals held throughout Florida visit www.FestivalofChariots.org